The advent of various vaccines for the diseases led to a dramatic decline in the disease incidence in the community. Small pox is one disease, which had already been eradicated globally due to successful vaccination strategies.But a similar disease namely chicken pox caused by the Varicella zoster virus cause considerable suffering and discomfort among young children and old people, says Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Dr. Subaranjana Padmanaban.

Children who suffer chicken pox infection during their exam can miss their valuable time. At times in few children, the disease would prove more aggressive and cause infection in lungs leading to Pneumonia and may affect the brain leading to swelling in the brain (Encephalitis).

If chicken pox infection is contracted by the pregnant lady during the first 3 months of pregnancy, there is a risk of congenital abnormalities in the new born of chances of abortion. If the mother contracts the diseases just prior or soon after delivery the chances of infecting the newborn baby are very high which may be a life-threatening infection for the baby.

Even people who suffered from chicken pox in early years of life may get painful rashes on the back (Shingles).

Children, Adolescents, and adults who have not suffered from chicken pox can be effectively protected with vaccine. The chicken pox vaccine is nearly 100% effective and well tolerated. Rarely 1 – 4% of vaccine recipients show a mild break through like syndrome.

Chicken pox vaccine is recommended all age groups from 1 year onwards.

Dose:

From 12 months of age up to including 10 years of age

– 1 dose

11 years and above

– 2 doses with interval

6 to 10 weeks

The vaccination is indicated only for the children and adults who have not suffered the disease.